France’s President, Emmanuel Macron’s, recent state visit to Saudi Arabia, held from 2-4 December 2024, was a pivotal moment for bilateral relations between France and Saudi Arabia, as well as for broader relations between the European Union and the Saudi kingdom. This meeting took place during a particularly delicate political period in France, with the government in crisis following a vote of no confidence< in Prime Minister Michel Barnier.

During the visit, Macron met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to strengthen cooperation in various sectors. Agreements were signed in the solar energy sector, where TotalEnergies will construct a 0.3-gigawatt solar park in Rabigh Industrial City in partnership with Aljomaih Energy and Water Company, with an expected operational date in 2026. EDF Renewables, in collaboration with China’s State Power Investment Corporation, will develop two solar parks with a total capacity of 1.4 gigawatts. These initiatives are part of Saudi Arabia’s fifth round of renewable energy bids, aimed at boosting renewable capacity to 130 gigawatts by 2030.

Defense collaboration was another key focus, as discussions revolved around diversifying Saudi Arabia’s military procurement sources beyond the United States. Macron emphasised that progress was made, stating, that ‘In matters of security and defense, we have clearly advanced things. We have signed contracts that were awaited.’ Additionally, a major agreement was reached in waste management, involving Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, the Saudi Investment Recycling Company, and Veolia to enhance recycling and waste management in the Kingdom.

These developments underscore the visit’s importance in consolidating economic and strategic ties between France and Saudi Arabia, positioning France as a crucial partner in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic diversification strategy. Macron’s visit also carries broader implications for EU-Saudi relations. The European Union is Saudi Arabia’s largest trading partner, accounting for 15% of total trade. Strengthening ties between France and Saudi Arabia could pave the way for increased European investments in Saudi Arabia, particularly in renewable energy and infrastructure.

Furthermore, France, as an influential EU member, has the potential to contribute significantly to regional stability in the Middle East through closer cooperation with Saudi Arabia. This is especially pertinent given ongoing regional tensions, including conflicts in Syria and delicate relations with Iran.

In summary, Macron’s visit to Saudi Arabia not only bolstered bilateral ties but also opened new avenues for broader cooperation between the European Union and Saudi Arabia, addressing shared challenges and fostering mutual interests.